Ombuds

The Ombudsperson is a confidential, independent, informal and impartial resource for members of any organization's community. As a trained Organizational Ombuds, Vivian Hsu helps individuals explore concerns relating to their community, including fair and equitable treatment, interpersonal relationships, and management concerns. Using conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation and thoughtful diplomacy, Vivian will help individuals assess, prevent or address challenging problems which they bring to her in this unique capacity.

Vivian is the Ombudsperson for Mount Holyoke College. She is a member of the International Ombudsman Association, and is guided by the IOA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

As described by the IOA, organizational ombuds work with individuals and groups in an organization to (1) provide a safe space to talk about an issue or concern, (2) explore options to help resolve conflicts, and (3) bring systemic concerns to the attention of the organization for resolution. An organizational ombuds operates in a manner to preserve the confidentiality of those seeking services, maintains a neutral/impartial position with respect to the concerns raised, works at an informal level of the organizational system (compared to more formal channels that are available), and is independent of formal organizational structures. Organizational ombuds work in all types of organizations, including government agencies, colleges and universities, corporations, hospitals and other healthcare organizations, and not-for-profit organizations, foundations, and associations.